How to Grow Corms

Growing corms, which are bulb-like stems, is a wonderful way to have beautiful blooming flowers such as crocuses, tuberous begonias and gladiolas. Often people refer to corms as bulbs; although they are similar, there are slight differences. Corms have a papery covering and a basal plate on the bottom that stores nutrients. Planting directions for each type corm is different. The following directions are for crocuses.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Work the area using a tiller or a garden fork to a depth of 12 to 15 inches, where the corms are going to be planted.

2. Add compost and bulb fertilizer, following the directions on the fertilizer product regarding the amount to add for the area you are planting.

3. Use a bulb planter, a trowel or your hand to plant the corms to a depth of about 4 inches. The top of the corm should be about 2 inches below the ground surface level. Make sure that the pointy end of the corm is facing up.

4. Space the corms 3 to 4 inches apart when planting.

5. Cover the corms with soil and firmly press the soil down.

6. Water the corms thoroughly.

7. Place a 2 to 4 inch mulch covering over the area if you live in a cold climate.

Tips & Warnings

• Plant crocus corms in late September or October if you live in the northern part of the United States, or October and November if you live in the South. The location should be sunny, with soil that will not get soggy or overly wet during the winter.
• Keep the flower beds watered if there are dry spells in the fall.

Resources

• Visit this site for information on growing other corms.
• Visit this site for more gardening tips.